Physical Exam Specialist
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Wasatch Peak Family Practice
Family Practice located in Layton, Utah
A physical exam is one of the most useful diagnostic and preventive tools to evaluate your overall health and identify any issues. The team at Wasatch Peak Family Practice is committed to providing men, women, and families living in or around Layton, Utah with the most comprehensive physical exams, through the rigorous assessment of individual medical concerns and quick action in times of need. Call today to schedule an initial consultation with a practitioner.
Physical Exam Q & A
What is a physical exam?
A physical exam is part of a general preventive care checkup.
During your physical exam, your doctor studies your medical and family history, answers health-related questions, and examines your physical wellbeing. Your age, current state of health, and history can lead to additional testing and bloodwork.
Why do you need a physical exam?
The team at Wasatch Peak Family Practice recommends regular physical exams to:
- Check for possible diseases
- Update any necessary immunizations
- Identify issues that might develop into medical complications
- Ensure that you’re maintaining healthy nutrition and exercise
In select cases, physical exams are required before various surgical procedures or treatments for a medical condition.
How should you prepare for a physical exam?
It’s vital that you prepare for your physical exam and gather paperwork to show:
- Relevant recent test results
- Your medical and surgical history
- List of any symptoms or pain you’re experiencing
- Names and contact information of other doctors you’ve visited recently
- List of current medications, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs
When getting ready for your physical exam, make sure to wear something that’s comfortable, and don’t overcrowd yourself with excessive jewelry and makeup. These could interfere with or delay the exam.
What does a physical exam involve?
During your physical exam, your doctor checks your height, weight, pulse, and examines your body to make sure there aren’t any unusual growths or marks.
It’s typical that your doctor examines your abdomen and other parts of your body to evaluate the consistency, location, size, texture, and tenderness of your individual organs.
Using a stethoscope, your doctor then listens to your heart’s rhythm to track heart function. Your doctor might also use a technique called percussion, which involves gentle taps on your body to discover any fluid and assess your organs.
Depending on your practitioner’s initial feedback, you might need to get bloodwork and evaluate your cholesterol, blood pressure and sugar levels, inflammatory markers, and more. The goal here is to paint the most precise picture of your overall health.
If you’re overdue for a physical exam or have concerns or are experiencing discomfort, call the team at Wasatch Peak Family Practice today to book an appointment.
